Journal: Bibliotheca Sacra
Volume: BSAC 179:715 (Jul 2022)
Article: From The Editor
Author: Glenn R. Kreider

From The Editor

Glenn R. Kreider

In his interaction with the Lord after the golden calf rebellion, Moses declared that what made his people distinct was the presence of their God. This is what, Moses said, “will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth” (Exod 33:16). Forty years later when Moses announced that his time as leader was coming to an end, he encouraged the Israelites to trust the Lord: “Do not be afraid or terrified . . . for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you” (Deut 31:6). No matter what they face, God’s people can trust in his abiding presence and his promise to remain faithful to them.

Amid suffering and persecution, David cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Ps 22:1). On the cross Jesus quoted this (Matt 27:46). How could it be that the God who promises never to forsake his people could in fact do so? He could not and remain faithful to his promises. This is surely why David later confessed, “I will declare your name to my people; in the assembly I will praise you” (Ps 22:22). David professed his confidence in God’s faithfulness, a faithfulness that will result in resurrection and eternal life. Jesus had the same confidence (Matt 17:22–23).

In the midst of joy and sorrow, plenty and want, peace and conflict, health and pain, we can trust a faithful God to never abandon us. His presence with us is sure and guaranteed.